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Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
The research plan includes combining terrain relative navigation with an optical camera with local map (hazard relative navigation) wih a LiDAR. We will investigate how to integrate both optical nav schemes whether it is the transition from one to the other or combining them. The funds for increasing lab fidelity will be spend on an automotive car LiDAR fr better local terrain mapping indoors (and outdoors), and a high fidelity mock terrain surface to test algorithms. The results of this project will help SPLICE, which is NASA's precision landing technology development project for the next 2 years at least.
Future lander missions need the ability to land precisely and safely. OASSIS year 1 developed the capability to test terrain relative navigation algorithms using low cost low fidelity sensors to help integrate autonomous precision landing systems more thoroughly prior to flight tests. Year 2 will build upon this effort by continuing algorithm development and increasing the fidelity of the sensors in the lab. The goal of OASSIS was to develop an indoor/outdoor portable platform with relevant sensors and GN&C algorithms to advance the development of precision landing technologies without the limitations of a pure simulation environment or prohibitive flight test costs. The resulting setup will give us the ability to experiment, while putting sensors in motion, with new precision landing algorithms for future robotic and human landers that require terrain relative navigation and hazard detection onboard.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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